Unleash the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this grilled Mexican street corn, otherwise known as Elotes. An absolute crowd-pleaser, this dish combines the earthiness of grilled corn with a creamy, tangy dressing and a topping of crumbly cotija cheese. The result? A mouth-watering explosion of textures and flavors that is sure to transport you straight to the bustling streets of Mexico.
Photos of Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes) Recipe
The star ingredient of this dish is Cotija cheese. A dry grating cheese similar to Parmesan, it comes from the town of Cotija in Michoacan, Mexico. It's salty, strong-flavored and doesn't completely melt, which makes it perfect for sprinkling over the corn. Ancho chili powder is another key ingredient, produced from dried and ground poblano peppers. Its mild to medium heat gives the corn a gentle kick. If these ingredients are not commonly found in your local supermarket, they can be purchased at a Latin grocery store or online.
Key Ingredients for Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes)
Yellow corn: A summer staple, corn on the cob provides a sweet, juicy base for the rich toppings.
Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, tangy coating for the corn.
Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herby touch to the mayo dressing.
Garlic: Gives the dressing a spicy kick.
Cayenne pepper: Adds a touch of heat to the mayo dressing.
Cotija cheese: A crumbly Mexican cheese that adds a salty finish.
Ancho chili powder: Gives a smoky, mild heat to the finished corn.
Lime wedges: Provides a spritz of citrusy freshness to cut through the rich toppings.
One reader, Donielle Melson says:
This grilled Mexican street corn recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are out of this world, and the combination of mayo, cheese, and spices is simply divine. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a burst of Mexican flavors. I highly recommend it for your next BBQ!
Techniques for Grilling Perfect Mexican Street Corn
How to grill the corn: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 450 degrees F. Place the corn on the grill, leaving space between them, and let them grill for about 8 to 9 minutes, turning every few minutes until charred on all sides.
How to make the mayonnaise mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cilantro, garlic, and cayenne pepper until well combined. Set aside for later use.
How to coat the corn with cheese: Place the cotija cheese in a shallow dish long enough to fit the corn. Working with one cob of corn at a time, use a spatula to brush all sides with the mayonnaise mixture, then lightly roll in cheese to coat with a thin layer.
How to season the corn: Sprinkle the corn with ancho chili powder, a little cayenne pepper if desired, and a light sprinkle of cilantro. Turn the corn to the opposite side and repeat the seasoning. Serve with lime wedges if desired.
How To Make Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes)
Taste the flavors of Mexico with this nicely Grilled Mexican Corn packed with incredible flavor, slathered with a creamy mayo mix, and rolled in cheese!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 6earsyellow corn,shucked
- ½cupmayonnaise,preferably ¼ regular and ¼ light
- 2tbspcilantro,finely chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1clovesmall garlic,minced
- 1fair pinchcayenne pepper,plus more for topping, to taste
- 1cupcotija cheese,finely crumbled
- ½tspancho chili powder,plus more to taste
- lime wedges,for serving, optional
Instructions
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Preheat a grill to medium-high heat, about 450 degrees F).
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Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, whisk stir together the mayonnaise, cilantro, garlic, cayenne pepper. Set aside.
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Place the cotija cheese in a shallow dish long enough to fit the corn.
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Once the grill is preheated, place the corn on the grill, leaving space between them.
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Let grill for about 8 to 9 minutes total. until charred on all sides, turning every few minutes.
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Working with one cob of corn at a time, use a spatula to brush all sides with the mayonnaise mixture.
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Then lightly roll in cheese to coat with a thin layer. (it should look somewhat sparse, don’t overdo it or the cheese will be overwhelming and you won’t have enough to coat all of them).
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Transfer to a serving platter or baking sheet and repeat with the remaining corn.
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Sprinkle the corn with chili powder, then a little cayenne pepper, if desired, then turn to opposite side and sprinkle with more chili powder.
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Sprinkle lightly with more cilantro and serve with lime wedges if desired.
Recipe Notes
- Sprinkle over the cotija for a lighter coating (rather than rolling).
- Add chili powder to taste. Some people like a lot, while others like just a few dashes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 297.97kcal
- Fat: 22.26g
- Saturated Fat: 6.05g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.83g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.65g
- Carbohydrates: 21.01g
- Fiber: 2.38g
- Sugar: 6.55g
- Protein: 7.46g
- Cholesterol: 27.51mg
- Sodium: 413.21mg
- Calcium: 166.48mg
- Potassium: 316.94mg
- Iron: 0.63mg
- Vitamin A: 59.99µg
- Vitamin C: 9.60mg
Grilling Technique Tip for Perfect Mexican Street Corn
When grilling the corn, ensure to turn it every few minutes. This will allow for even charring and prevent any side from getting overly burnt. Also, when applying the mayonnaise mixture, use a spatula for an even spread. This will ensure that every kernel gets a good coating, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Lastly, when rolling the corn in cotija cheese, be gentle to prevent the cheese from clumping up. This will give your corn a nice, even layer of cheese.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Elotes
Prep ahead: Prepare the mayonnaise mixture and grate the cotija cheese in advance to streamline the grilling process.
Use a grill basket: Consider using a grill basket to cook multiple ears of corn at once, saving time and ensuring even grilling.
Multi-task: While the corn is grilling, prepare the mayonnaise mixture and gather the toppings to maximize efficiency.
Delegate: Enlist the help of a friend or family member to assist with grilling and coating the corn for a quicker preparation process.
Organize your workspace: Set up a designated area for grilling and assembling the elotes to work more efficiently and minimize time spent searching for ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes) Recipe
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a tangy creaminess similar to mayonnaise, but with less fat and more protein.
cotija cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor that can work well as a substitute for cotija cheese.
Presentation Ideas for Grilled Mexican Street Corn
Elevate the corn on the cob: Place the grilled corn on a stylish platter or individual serving plates, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the grilled corn to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Skillfully drizzle the mayonnaise mixture over the corn, creating elegant and artistic patterns on the surface of the cobs.
Create a cheese dusting: Use a fine mesh strainer to evenly dust the cotija cheese over the corn, ensuring a delicate and visually appealing layer of cheese.
Present with a lime wedge: Place a lime wedge on the side of each corn cob, adding a touch of vibrancy and providing a hint of citrus for an extra burst of flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Mexican Street Corn
To reheat leftover grilled mexican street corn (elotes), preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each ear of corn in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Heat the corn in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the corn from drying out.
Another option is to reheat the elotes on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the corn directly on the grates. Grill for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is heated through and slightly charred. This method will help to revive the smoky flavor and crispy texture of the corn.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the mexican street corn in the microwave. Place the corn on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Keep in mind that this method may result in a softer texture compared to the oven or grill methods.
For a quick and easy reheating option, you can also cut the kernels off the cob and reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the skillet and sauté the kernels for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method is perfect for repurposing leftover elotes in salads, tacos, or burritos.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to sprinkle some fresh cilantro, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime juice over the corn before serving to refresh the flavors and add a pop of brightness to the dish.
Interesting Fact About Mexican Street Corn
Grilled Mexican street corn, also known as elotes, is a popular street food in Mexico. It is typically sold by street vendors and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The combination of the charred corn, creamy mayonnaise, tangy cotija cheese, and spicy chili powder creates a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer grilling. This dish is a great way to enjoy fresh corn and is a staple at outdoor gatherings and barbecues. It's a versatile recipe that can be customized with additional spices and toppings to suit individual preferences.
Is Making Elotes at Home Cost-Effective?
This grilled Mexican street corn (elotes) recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as corn, mayonnaise, and cotija cheese, are affordable and readily available. The dish offers a delightful burst of flavors and textures, making it a hit with all age groups. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, I rate this recipe a solid 9 for its affordability, delicious taste, and simplicity.
Is Mexican Street Corn (Elotes) Healthy or Unhealthy?
The grilled Mexican street corn (elotes) recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to some of its ingredients. The main concerns are the high amounts of mayonnaise and cotija cheese, which are both high in fat and calories. Additionally, the chili powder and cayenne pepper add a kick of flavor but also contribute to the dish's overall sodium content.
However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe. Corn is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and grilling it can enhance its natural sweetness without adding extra calories. The cilantro and lime wedges also provide a fresh and zesty flavor while adding some nutrients to the dish.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of mayonnaise used or replace it with a lighter alternative, such as Greek yogurt or avocado-based dressing
- Use a lower-fat cheese, such as feta or queso fresco, or reduce the amount of cheese used
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on excessive salt or fat, such as smoked paprika, cumin, or fresh herbs like parsley or oregano
- Serve the elotes with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad to balance out the meal and add more nutrients
By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of grilled Mexican street corn while making it a healthier option overall.
Editor's Opinion on This Mexican Street Corn Recipe
The grilled Mexican street corn (elotes) recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The charred corn provides a smoky sweetness, complemented by the creamy, tangy mayonnaise mixture and the sharp, salty cotija cheese. The hint of garlic and cilantro adds a fresh, aromatic dimension, while the ancho chili powder and cayenne pepper provide a subtle, warming heat. This dish is a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The addition of lime wedges adds a refreshing citrusy finish, elevating the overall experience.
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Why trust this Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes) Recipe:
This grilled Mexican street corn recipe is a must-try for any corn lover. The combination of creamy mayonnaise, zesty lime, and savory cotija cheese creates a burst of flavor in every bite. The use of ancho chili powder and cayenne pepper adds a delightful kick, while the grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the corn. With the added touch of cilantro and garlic, this recipe promises an authentic taste of Mexican street food that will surely impress your taste buds. Trust in this recipe for a mouthwatering experience!
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